The minimum wage has gone up, with the main rate for over-21s rising by 15p to £6.08 an hour.The minimum wage has gone up, with the main rate for over-21s rising by 15p to £6.08 an hour.

The wage hike took effect on Saturday October 1, and also affects 18-20 year-olds, increasing by 6p to £4.98 an hour; it is up to £3.68 for 16 to 17 year-olds and rises by 10p to £2.60 for apprentices.

The minimum wage was introduced in 1999 and is set each year by the Low Pay Commission, this year's increase was recommended to government in April.

The chairman of the Low Pay Commission, David Norgrove, said: "The UK economy is forecast to grow, but the pace is uncertain. We believe our recommendations are appropriate and balance the needs of low-paid workers and the challenges faced by businesses.

"The position of young people in the labour market continues to be of concern. Their employment prospects have suffered more than adults. We recommended a lower increase for young people in order to help protect their labour market position."